Types of Drywall Finishes: A Complete Guide for Homeowners

When it comes to drywall installation, the finish you choose can greatly impact the overall appearance and texture of your walls. Drywall finishes not only contribute to the aesthetic of your home but also can affect the durability and ease of maintenance. Here’s a comprehensive guide to the various types of drywall finishes available, helping you make an informed choice for your home.

Level 0 – No Finish

Level 0 is the most basic drywall finish, often used in areas where the walls will not be seen, such as in utility areas or behind cabinets. In this finish, the drywall is installed but not taped or mudded. This level is typically not suitable for living spaces but serves as a base for further finishing.

Level 1 – Basic Tape

Level 1 drywall finish involves the application of joint tape over the drywall seams and corners. The tape is embedded in a thin layer of joint compound, but no additional smoothing is done. This level is often used in areas where surfaces will be covered by additional materials or textures, such as commercial spaces or areas with minimal visual demands.

Level 2 – Textured Finish

Level 2 includes all the features of Level 1, with the addition of a second coat of joint compound applied to the tape and seams. This finish is commonly used in garages, warehouses, and other non-living spaces where a more robust surface is required but where a high level of finish is not necessary.

Level 3 – Intermediate Smooth

Level 3 involves a third coat of joint compound, with a focus on achieving a smoother surface. The surface is sanded to remove imperfections, and the result is a relatively smooth wall with minimal texture. This level is often used in areas that will be painted with flat or low-sheen paints, as it provides a good foundation for achieving a smooth, even appearance.

Level 4 – Standard Finish

Level 4 drywall finish is popular in residential and commercial applications where a high-quality surface is desired. This finish includes a fourth coat of joint compound and meticulous sanding to create a very smooth surface. It’s ideal for areas where paint will be applied, particularly if using a gloss or semi-gloss finish, which can highlight any imperfections.

Level 5 – High-Quality Finish

Level 5 is the highest quality drywall finish, providing a flawless, smooth surface. This finish includes all the steps from Level 4, with an additional skim coat of joint compound applied over the entire surface. The skim coat is finely sanded to achieve a perfect finish, making it ideal for high-visibility areas and for use with high-sheen paints or specialty wall coverings. Level 5 is particularly suitable for spaces with strong lighting, which can highlight any flaws in lower-level finishes.

Textured Finishes

In addition to the standard levels, textured finishes add unique styles and patterns to your walls. Popular textures include:

Knockdown: This finish is achieved by applying joint compound with a brush or trowel and then lightly knocking down the peaks with a drywall knife. It creates a subtle, mottled appearance.

Popcorn: Often used on ceilings, this finish involves spraying a mixture of joint compound and texture material to create a bumpy, acoustic surface.

Orange Peel: This finish mimics the texture of an orange peel, achieved by spraying a thinned joint compound onto the wall and then lightly smoothing it.

Sand Swirl: A more decorative finish, sand swirl involves applying a layer of joint compound and then using a brush to create swirling patterns.

Choosing the Right Finish

The choice of drywall finish depends on several factors, including the intended use of the space, desired appearance, and budget. For high-traffic areas or spaces with specific aesthetic requirements, investing in a higher-level finish can enhance both the look and durability of your walls. For less visible areas, a more basic finish may suffice.

Consulting with a professional drywall contractor can help you select the best finish for your project and ensure that the application is done correctly for the best results. With the right finish, your walls will not only look great but also stand up to the demands of everyday use.